While one of the main goals of the hikeSafe program is to reduce the number of rescues necessary, accidents do happen. In these unfortunate situations,

Search and rescue of lost or injured hikers can involve a variety of search and rescue teams and personnel including local law enforcement, fish and wildlife agency staff, civilian volunteers, military specialists and other experts. One agency takes the lead, coordinatoring all professional personnel volunteers.

Many members of the participating organizations are active EMS personnel; all are well-versed in outdoor skills and are invaluable to hikers in an emergency. But, the less they are called on, the safer everyone is!

Many times these individuals are putting themselves at personal risk in order to find someone who has perhaps used poor judgment and stumbled into a dangerous situation, especially when there is a severe weather situation.

For instance, if someone is injured in the mountains, 18 to 24 – or more – rescuers and several hours are needed to carry that person out. Be prepared to help - especially if the injured is a member of your group.

Hikers should also know that if they need to be rescued as a result of their irresponsible actions, in some areas they can be charged for the cost of the event. This can be in the thousands per rescue. For example, in New Hampshire, where the hikeSafe program and Hiker's Responsibiity Code were developed, New Hampshire Fish & Game, the agency which oversees search and rescue, spends upwards of $320,000 annually on rescues.